James' Restored & Revived Amsterdam Apartment

This renovation project in my heritage protected innercity Amsterdam apartment from 1933 aims to correct revious unsympathic alterations and restore a neutral and restrained decor. The floorplan conforms to typical amsterdam housing stock, a U-shaped design around the communal staircase with the living area at the front south side and the bedroom to the rear facing a small courtyard.

The objectives were to increase the feeling of space through the "white washing" of all surfaces, including painting the aging existing floorboards with a high gloss paint. Extensive replastering was required and all mouldings and skirtings were removed and plastered over or replaced with simpler reduced forms and the installation of the "mirrorwall" helps further to alievate the tight dimensions of the main living room and provides alternate views to the outside. A large storagewall in the bedroom allow for the living space to remain free from clutter and mess.

My collection of mid-century furniture from dutch designers is crucial in creating a suitable atmosphere. Pieces such as Wim Rietveld's Pyramid Table and an original Martin Visser SZ02 chair contrast in the white space. The acquisition of a rare Martin Visser credenza provided the perfect opportunity to house the my audiophile hifi system. An original Rob Parry (a former student of Gerrit Rietveld) "Lotus" lounge chair and "Result" schoolchairs by Friso Kramer complete the collection.